Public Works, Transport and Meteorological Services Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau is acting Prime Minister while PM Sitiveni Rabuka goes on an official visit to Australia.
PM Rabuka left the country yesterday following an invitation from Australian PM Anthony Albanese.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad is attending the 2023 World Bank/IMF annual meeting in Morocco while deputy PM and Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka is at the Global Plastic Summit in Bangkok, Thailand.
Deputy PM and Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica is attending the Archipelagic and Island States Forum in Indonesia and will later be representing Fiji at the 8th World Investment Forum 2023 in Abu Dhabi.
Ro Filipe was also appointed as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, replacing Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Minister Lynda Tabuya.
A statement on Mr Rabuka’s official Facebook page said Ro Filipe’s selection for this role was driven by his extensive experience as a parliamentarian “and particularly given his tenure as the Opposition Whip from 2020 to 2022”.
“This appointment follows a strategic decision to ensure efficient and effective governance as part of a broader strategy to enhance the leadership and policy co-ordination within government, in particular, the co-ordination of government business in Parliament,” it said.
“Government is confident in Hon. Tuisawau’s ability to excel in this crucial position, and his appointment reinforces the commitment to ensuring the smooth functioning of parliamentary procedures and the effective representation of Government’s interest in the legislature.
“The Prime Minister is confident that with Hon. Tuisawau leading government business, Government will continue to progress in achieving its development goals and addressing the urgent needs of its citizens.”
PM Rabuka also expressed his appreciation to Ms Tabuya for her dedicated service and commitment to the nation during her tenure.
He also informed Speaker Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu of his decision to nominate Ro Filipe as Leader of Government Business in Parliament, under Standing Order 3 of the Standing Orders of Parliament.
PM Rabuka will return from his Australia trip on October 21, 2023.
